Fashion Design
The scope of fashion design in Kenya is rapidly growing ascareer opportunities exist in clothing brands, design houses, textile companies, retail stores, costume design for media, and freelance practice.
Fashion designers are responsible for creating appealing and functional clothing and accessories that reflect style, culture, and innovation.
Although the fashion industry faces competition and shifting trends, rising local demand, digital influence, and growing interest in African-inspired fashion offer new and exciting opportunities.
Graduates can work as fashion illustrators, stylists, merchandisers, pattern makers, textile designers, or start their own labels.
Basic Level
At the basic level of Fashion Design, students learn the fundamentals of clothing design, sketching, fabric identification, sewing techniques, pattern making, and garment construction. They are introduced to color coordination, fashion illustration, and basic textile knowledge while developing creativity and practical skills needed to create simple fashion pieces.
Intermediate Level
At the intermediate level of Fashion Design, students improve their skills in garment construction, advanced pattern drafting, fashion illustration, textile selection, and clothing production. They also learn fashion trends, branding, computer-aided fashion design, and portfolio development. The training helps students handle more detailed and professional fashion projects.
Advanced Level
At the advanced level of Fashion Design, students focus on professional fashion production, haute couture techniques, fashion marketing, entrepreneurship, styling, and collection development. They also learn fashion business management, advanced garment technology, and creative direction while working on industry-standard projects that prepare them for professional careers in the fashion industry.
Requirements
Certificate courses require a KCSE mean grade of D or D+, while Diploma programs commonly require a C- (minus). Creativity, interest in fashion, and basic artistic skills are also important.
Mode of Delivery
- In-person classes at IKIGAI training studios.
- Online interactive sessions for remote learners.
- Blended learning approach combining video tutorials, live practice, and group discussions
Program Goals
The goals of a Fashion Design program are to develop creativity, technical skills, and professional knowledge in clothing and textile design. The program aims to equip students with skills in garment construction, fashion illustration, textile selection, and fashion marketing. It also prepares learners to create innovative fashion products that meet industry and consumer needs.
Skills Conveyed
- Fashion illustration and sketching skills
- Sewing and garment construction skills
- Pattern making and drafting skills
- Fabric and textile selection knowledge
- Creativity and trend forecasting skills
- Computer-aided fashion design skills
- Communication and presentation abilities
- Entrepreneurship and fashion business skills
Career Opportunities
- Fashion Designer
- Fashion Illustrator
- Garment Technologist
- Fashion Stylist
- Pattern Maker
- Textile Designer
- Fashion Entrepreneur
- Costume Designer
- Fashion Merchandiser
- Clothing Production Manager
- Fashion Consultant
- Tailor or Dressmaker
- Fashion Blogger or Content Creator
- Fashion Brand Manager
Benefits
- Develops creativity and artistic talent
- Provides practical garment production skills
- Creates opportunities for self-employment and entrepreneurship
- Prepares students for careers in the growing fashion industry
- Enhances innovation and trend analysis abilities
- Builds skills in modern fashion technology and design software
- Increases employment opportunities in fashion and textile sectors
- Helps students build professional portfolios
